Called back to India from the ongoing tour of Australia and suspended from all cricket pending an enquiry, Hardik Pandya is facing some heavy consequences for his comments on a television show that aired last week.
The Indian all-rounder last played for India in an Asia Cup match last September before injury ruled him out for the next few months. He was included in the squad for the Test series when the show went on air and forced BCCI to take action against him as well as KL Rahul.
Back in his home in Baroda with his family, Pandya’s father told Mid Day that the cricketer has not left his house and refuses to take any calls. However, he is watching his team play the one-day series in Australia.
"He watched the match. Ever since he has returned from Australia, he has not stepped out of the house. He is also not taking any calls... he is just taking rest," Himanshu Pandya told Mid Day.
Hardik Pandya and KL Rahul spoke to BCCI CEO Rahul Johri over the phone this week following their ‘unconditional apologies’ in reply to CoA’s second show-cause notice. However, the step step of the inquiry is unknown with the CoA members not being able to reach a consensus on the method to be followed.
Supreme Court’s 17 January hearing of the BCCI’s matter may have a resolution with the CoA writing to the court to appoint an Ombudsman lead the inquiry.
Pandya’s father said while he awaits the decision, Hardik repents his comments on the show. "He is very disappointed with the suspension and repents the views he expressed on the TV show. He is committed not to repeat the same mistake. We have decided not to talk to him on this subject. Even his elder brother Krunal has not discussed anything about the episode with him. We are waiting for the BCCI's decision," Himanshu said.
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